BOISBRIAND, QC — General Motors of Canada Limited (GMCL) today advised employees at its Ste. Thérèse, Quebec plant that it would cease production of Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird models in 2002 and close in September of 2002.
GMCL president and general manager, Maureen Kempston Darkes said, "This is an extremely painful and difficult decision. GM has worked very hard to identify a new product or other alternative to continue manufacturing at Ste. Thérèse. We have explored a variety of alternatives, including vehicle assembly, niche vehicle assembly, powertrain components, remanufacturing and other automotive-related operations. However, despite several years of intensive work, we have been unable to identify any viable alternatives.
"I want to recognize the tremendous efforts of the Ste. Thérèse workforce. Over the years, they have demonstrated real pride of workmanship and a firm commitment to our customers, which we sincerely appreciate.
"We are committed to ensuring as smooth a transition as possible for our people. Almost all of the 1100 hourly employees currently on-roll and the 300 hourly employees currently on lay-off at Ste. Thérèse are now eligible for early retirement or will become eligible within the next few years. The GM of Canada benefit packages for hourly and salary employees are extensive, with income continuation for up to 3 years for affected employees. We are committed to working closely with the CAW and with the Quebec and Federal Governments to put in place retraining and other transition assistance programs for those that want to continue their working careers.